MBABANE: Senator Mancoba Khumalo, the Minister of Commerce Industry and Trade says the proposed law that seeks to allow liquor businesses to operate on Swazi Nation Land(SNL)in the rural areas will enhance economic development and create jobs.
Speaking during an engagement meeting with Members of Parliament(MPs) at the Happy Valley Hotel on Thursday, the Minister said the Liquor Licensing Bill was in line with Section 59(2) of the Constitution that advocates for a healthy and sound economy.
“The extension of the issuance of the Liquor Licenses to liquor businesses in SNL is believed to increase economic growth and enhance job creation thus contributing positively to the livelihood of emaSwati.Worth noting is the fact that there has been an existence of an illegal trade of liquor in the rural areas which did not benefit the economy and is in violation of this Act. On another note, this can be regarded as an indicator of a market or demand of the liquor business under SNL.The Bill is also aimed at achieving the economic objectives of the country as specified in Section 59(2)(d) of the Constitution, which provides that there should be a sound and healthy economy; underpinned by principles balancing all regions between rural and urban areas and focusing on improving living conditions in the rural areas,” said the Minister as quoted by Government online platforms.
Commerce Minister Mancoba Khumalo.